When it comes to experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, few dishes are more versatile than soup. A simple bowl of broth can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece with just a few added elements – think spices, herbs, vegetables, and proteins. In this article, we’ll take you on a global journey through 18 creative place that experiments with soup recipes inspiring. From the spicy kick of Thai coconut soup to the comforting warmth of French onion soup, each recipe offers a unique twist on the classic dish.
In the following pages, we’ll explore these international soups and share our favorite techniques for elevating them to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone – so let’s get started and warm up with some delicious soup!
Spicy Thai Coconut Soup with Lemongrass
This spicy and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of Thai flavors, featuring the brightness of lemongrass, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the heat of chilies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh lemongrass
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (depending on desired spiciness)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, curry paste, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Add sliced chilies and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Creamy Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this rich and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of roasted garlic with the earthiness of cauliflower. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 heads of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted cauliflower mixture, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Moroccan Harira with Chickpeas and Lentils
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that combines the comforting warmth of lentils and chickpeas with the brightness of aromatic spices. This recipe is a variation that adds a boost of protein and fiber to this already nutritious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, chickpeas, and broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vietnamese Pho with Rare Beef and Herbs
This classic Vietnamese dish is a staple of street food culture, and for good reason – the combination of tender rare beef, flavorful broth, and fresh herbs is unbeatable. With this simple recipe, you can create an authentic and delicious bowl of pho in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rare steak (rare steak or thinly sliced ribeye works well)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 piece ginger, sliced
– 1 bunch fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro)
– 1 pound rice noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the rare steak to desired doneness.
2. In a large pot, combine broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, onion, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add cooked beef and noodles to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup with Avocado
This vibrant and flavorful soup combines the richness of chicken broth, tender tortillas, and creamy avocado for a deliciously comforting meal. Serve with crusty bread or a swirl of sour cream for an added touch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into strips
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, and torn tortillas. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until tortillas are tender.
5. Stir in avocado just before serving.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Japanese Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
Savor the rich flavors of Japan’s iconic noodle soup dish, featuring a savory miso broth, springy ramen noodles, and a runny soft-boiled egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups chicken or pork broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 soft-boiled egg, sliced
– Chopped green onions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine broth, miso paste, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Prepare soft-boiled eggs by cooking in boiling water for 6-7 minutes. Slice into wedges.
5. To assemble, place cooked noodles in a bowl, ladle hot broth over, and top with sliced egg.
6. Garnish with green onions and bean sprouts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyère Crouton
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted Gruyère cheese in this classic French soup. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
– 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add butter, wine (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Meanwhile, bake baguette cubes in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted croutons and melted Gruyère cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Korean Kimchi Jjigae with Tofu
This classic Korean dish is a staple of Korean cuisine, made by combining kimchi (spicy fermented Korean cabbage) with tofu and other ingredients. This recipe provides a simple and flavorful take on the traditional jjigae.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/2 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili paste (gochujang)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the tofu, kimchi, soy sauce, gochujang, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the mixture has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Indian Mulligatawny with Basmati Rice
Mulligatawny is a classic Indian soup that combines the warmth of spices with the creaminess of coconut milk. This recipe pairs it with fluffy basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Basmati rice: 1 cup rice, 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve with basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Minestrone with Fresh Basil
This classic Italian soup is a staple of any meal, packed with tender vegetables and beans, all brought together by the bright, citrusy flavor of fresh basil. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this minestrone is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Russian Borscht with Sour Cream
This classic beet-based soup is a staple of Russian cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With its vibrant color and rich flavor, it’s no wonder why this borscht recipe has been passed down through generations.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and grated
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, grated
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tablespoons of sour cream
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the grated beets, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender (about 20 minutes).
3. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh dill (if desired).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brazilian Feijoada Black Bean Soup
Feijoada, a hearty and flavorful Brazilian black bean soup, is a staple of Afro-Brazilian cuisine. This recipe combines tender beans with aromatic spices and savory meats for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked pork shoulder or bacon, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the pork or bacon and cook until browned.
3. Add the black beans, red bell pepper, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Greek Avgolemono with Orzo
Avgolemono, a classic Greek chicken soup, gets a twist by adding nutty orzo pasta to the mix. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the chicken and cook until it’s cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice and chopped dill.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peruvian Chupe de Camarones
Chupe de Camarones is a traditional Peruvian dish that warms the soul. This rich and flavorful shrimp stew is a staple in many Peruvian households, perfect for a cold winter’s night or a cozy gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add shrimp, diced tomatoes, fish stock or water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chinese Hot and Sour Soup with Tofu
This classic Chinese soup is a staple of Szechuan cuisine, perfect for a quick and comforting meal. With its spicy kick from chili peppers and the tanginess of vinegar, this hot and sour soup will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 scallion, thinly sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, whisk together broth, cornstarch, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add tofu and mushrooms; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tofu is lightly browned.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with scallion slices before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Polish Żurek with Sausage and Egg
Żurek, a traditional Polish sour rye soup, gets a boost of flavor and protein with the addition of sausage and egg. This comforting breakfast dish is perfect for chilly mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Żurek soup (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 sausages (such as kielbasa or Polish-style sausage), sliced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausages and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the Żurek soup and bring to a simmer.
4. Crack in the beaten eggs and stir gently to distribute evenly.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lebanese Lentil Soup with Lemon
This classic Lebanese soup is a staple of comfort food, made even brighter with the addition of a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. With its tender lentils, aromatic spices, and zesty citrus flavor, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, broth, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Swedish Yellow Pea Soup with Bacon
Warm up with this classic Swedish soup, rich in flavor and nutrients. This comforting recipe is a perfect treat on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried yellow split peas
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and carrots to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Drain and add the soaked peas, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Get ready to slurp up some inspiration! This collection of 18 creative soup recipes takes you on a culinary journey around the world. From spicy Thai coconut soup to creamy roasted garlic and cauliflower, these innovative dishes will elevate your soup game. Explore Moroccan harira with chickpeas and lentils, Vietnamese pho with rare beef and herbs, or Japanese miso ramen with soft-boiled egg. With flavors ranging from rich and creamy to bold and spicy, there’s something for every palate. Dive in and discover new favorites!
